The difference between petty theft and grand theft is in the value of the goods you've stolen.
Petty theft is when you steal something or things that are of value of $950.00 or less but when you steal items or goods valued higher than $950.00 then it becomes grand theft and is usually a felony in most states as well.
Petty theft is a less serious crime than regular theft.
Although still petty theft is serious and you can get 6 months in jail for the petty theft if convicted although in most cases a person gets probation.
The law defines petty theft as the theft of any property with a value of $950.00 or less.
Most petty thefts are charged as misdemeanors, which carry a sentence of up to six months in county jail, a fine of no more than $1,000.00, or both.
Petty theft refers to a criminal act in which property belonging to another is taken without that person's consent.
Larceny generally refers to nonviolent theft and is usually a misdemeanor.
Punishment for petty theft runs the gamut, from probation to life in prison.
For first time offenders, petty theft is often a misdemeanor.
However, since petty theft is at least a misdemeanor, it can also be punishable by a fine and up to one year in jail.
Some common examples of petty theft include: Stealing a shirt from a store at the mall; Leaving a restaurant without paying for you meal (frequently referred to as “dining and dashing”);